The Point, Issue 5, Volume 26 - March 3, 2022 by The Point - PVHS student newspaper

THE

POINT

PALOS VERDES HIGH SCHOOL - ISSUE 5, VOLUME 26 - MARCH 3, 2022

On Feb. 26, students and guests attended the PVHS 2022 Winter Formal at the OC Hanger in Costa Mesa.

(Graphic by Alycen Kim) (Photos courtesy of Cynthia Mindicino)

NEWS

From Paper to Screens, the SAT is Changing

By Ella Sherry reporter The SAT— a three-hour long college admissions test that focuses on concepts in math, reading, writing and language — is undergoing major changes that will be put into effect in 2024 for U.S. students. “The College Board is going digital as a new way to market their product in an increasingly test free/test optional world of college admissions,” College and Career Center director Joanne Lewis said. Some changes include the test going completely online to reach more students worldwide, shortening the total time to two hours instead of three, smaller reading passages and allowing students access to calculators on the entire math section. An additional change is the test becoming “section-adaptive.” “[This] means that each subject

will be divided into two sections,” Lewis said. “Based on a student’s performance in the first section, an algorithm chooses the appropriate difficulty for the second section. This is not going to benefit the students who might make a careless mistake on one of the first section questions, as it will bring them to questions in the second section of less difficulty that will not score as high as they might have had they not made that error in the first section of the test.” For students who haven’t taken the SAT yet, the new changes are both beneficial and slightly detrimental. “I’m not a big fan of the test going online because I prefer doing things on paper,” freshman Michelle Nikmehr said. “Some of the [changes] sound good, though.” The changes might also affect how students will study for the test.

“[I think] it will be way harder to study for as it’s a brand new test no one has taken yet so there aren’t past tests to study from,” junior Ainsley Schmitz said. For students who have already taken the pen-and-paper test, these changes would have been helpful. “I would have rather taken a shorter test and I would’ve loved a calculator on all the math questions,” Schmitz said. Overall, these new changes are going to affect the future of the SAT. With most colleges now test-optional, the SAT is becoming less relevant for applying to schools. “I am not an advocate for any of these college entrance exams as it’s in very rare cases that one of these exams will actually ‘benefit’ a student,” Lewis said. “Ultimately, the SAT and ACT are businesses that want to survive, so for me, this is just a remake of an old product

PV’s Signature Programs Seek “Fresh” Members

By Naomi Gan reporter

Charming Chinese culture, radiant robot reveals and dazzling debate displays. The signature programs and electives of PVHS all gathered last month to showcase themselves to both current and prospective students. Through Open House and the Elective Fair, parents and students had the opportunity to learn about what makes PV unique. For PV’s Chinese Program, these events served as crucial times to educate about the Chinese classes offered. “Both events were important to introduce and promote our program to current students and new students because a lot of times other students just don’t know too much about our program,” Chinese teacher Nancy Wei said. “I got to meet new parents and students and introduce them to our program.” The engaging natures of the Elective Fair and Open House allowed students to meet members of these programs and speak to them about their experiences. “I remember how I first learned about PV High’s Model United Nations program through Open House,” sophomore and PVHS MUN board member Mark Lin said. “I hope that the outreach of Open House and [the] Elective Fair allow other people to find their passion in debate and current affairs as well.” Programs loved how they were able to create meaningful connections with prospective members especially with the

that is increasingly becoming less important, and hopefully eventually obsolete. [But] if I must choose today, I’ll say that the shorter, digital version is going to be better for students. I’m hoping the cost comes down as there’s no longer millions of paper tests

Incoming freshmen browse Open House (Photo by Aidan Sun)

Chinese National Honor Society drum at Elective Fair (Photo by Amber Chen) return to an in-person format. “It was nice seeing this back in person,” senior and PVIT Space Team OBC leader Izzy Farrow said. “I think it is more authentic and helpful to gauge someone’s experience with their choice of electives through their body language and stories about their time in the programs rather than a virtual setting.” The interest being generated and long lists of prospective members attest to the success of the Elective Fair and Open House, although this is only a starting point in programs gaining new members. “We found a group of people

Alycen Kim Aidan Sun Adviser Cynthia Mindicino

interested in our program,” Lin said. “I hope that more people take a look at what we’re doing though, especially since a lot of people may not have had the chance to see our display.” Regardless of which program or elective students ended up gravitating toward, the pride of each program and the enthusiasm of all students could certainly be felt throughout Sea King Park. “Students seemed genuinely interested in what PVHS had to offer and even seemed open to getting out of their comfort zone and immersing themselves in a new activity,” Farrow said.

BSU Celebrates More Than Black History Month February 2022 marks the third year BSU has celebrated Black History Month on campus. The Black Student Union had some amazing events for Black History month. “We have the Langston Hughes interactive poster,” BSU advisor Angie Mogilefsky said. Hughes was one of the most influential poets in the Harlem renaissance. BSU used a quote from one of Hughes’ most famous poems titled “Harlem.” “What happens to a dream deferred?” the quote read on a poster where PVHS students could write what they believed happened to their forgotten dreams. On Feb. 15, BSU hosted a movie night showing “The Hate U Give.” “We want [to show] something a little more modern,” senior and BSU president Aliyah Jamerson said. The movie takes place in the present day and tackles the issues of police brutality and institutional racism. “The Hate U Give” is based on an African American girl’s personal experience attending a predominantly white school—a relatable situation for African American students at PVHS. “That is my exact situation being black in a predominately white school and having to fit in or act a certain way versus when you’re at home with your family,” Jamerson said. At the movie night BSU members were wearing with “Beyond 28.”

Editors & Leadership News: Vikesh Dheeriya Features: Lucia Ruiz Opinion: Amber Chen Sports: Jonathan Liu Design: Andrew Carpenter

Photography: Sierra Namvari Online: Ella Sherry Social Media: Kelly Donahue and Reddin Kehrli

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being created and mailed all over the world. “I think it’s going to be an improved testing experience for students in that it brings the test into the 21st century digital age and students are far more comfortable with that format.”

Beyond 28

By Luka Ardon reporter

Editors-in-Chief

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(Graphic by Ella Sherry)

“[Beyond 28] means that Black people and Black culture should be highlighted and celebrated 365 days of the year,” Jamerson said. Jamerson is already looking beyond the 28 days of February and planning future events. “I hope to book certain guest speakers, hold fundraisers, such as cookouts, collaborate with more clubs and much more,” Jamerson said. With all of these wonder actions planned brings a very important thing: representation for the Black community at PVHS. “School is a second home, and you should feel safe in a home,” Jamerson said. “Representation gives you that safety. It helps you not feel so small on a predominantly white campus.” With the African American population at PVHS being less than 5 percent, Jamerson believes that representation is key. “[Representation] will make the school a more cultured place,” Jamerson said. “It will help the students learn, grow, and appreciate. It will also allow Black students to feel seen and understood.” BSU is beyond prepared and ready to bring change and representation to PVHS, making our campus better for every student. “Imagine if your culture’s history was so rich, so impactful, and so empowering, but it wasn’t celebrated or even recognized,” Jamerson said. “We must recognize Black excellence. All of it.”

Staff Luka Ardon, Chloe Choi, Isabella Firmani, Naomi Gan, Eva Mayrose, Victoria Nolan, Aaron Paik, Meeka Rahimi, Sophie Stoddart, Ayla Torres, Natalie Wang

MARCH 3, 2022

NEWS

A Cal-amity in Admissions UC Berkeley freezes enrollment for prospective applicants

By Vikesh Dheeriya news editor On Feb. 14, University of California, Berkeley announced a recent court decision that would reduce the enrollment of the incoming freshmen class by onethird. The resident group, Save Berkeley Neighborhoods (SBN), filed a lawsuit against UC Berkeley for failure to comply with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Alameda County court claimed this violation stems from overpopulation of students, hence why they decided to reduce enrollment for the upcoming admission cycle. If this lawsuit is not appealed by the Supreme Court, 5,100 prospective applicants that would normally be offered admission, will not be admitted. This group stated that the university is at fault for not providing enough housing while continuing to admit more students than feasible. In a Feb.17 press release, Save Berkeley Neighborhoods president Phil Bokovoy called Berkeley’s refusal to notify students of the possible decrease in admissions a “cynical political move [that] uses our deserving young Californians as pawns in a political effort to avoid the severe impacts that unmitigated enrollment growth has had on low income tenants in the city of Berkeley.”

The land-poor UC Berkeley only provides housing “for about a quarter of its students, while the rest of us have to find housing off-campus,” PVHS Alumni and UC Berkeley freshman Richard Criley said. Because of this lack of housing, Berkeley residents are being displaced in favor of Cal students whose parents are able to afford apartments, furthering the homelessness crisis in the Bay Area. This issue, however, is more complex than just the overpopulation of students. “The UC Berkeley campus, regardless of enrollment numbers, tends to attract homeless people because students are more likely to be generous with money or food,” Criley said. “The city of Berkeley has a history of activism devoted to preserving areas for homeless encampments like People’s Park.” The decrease in student enrollment would cause the institution to lose $57 million in tuition and subsequently cut

financial aid given to low-income California prospective applicants. UC Berkeley would have to admit more out-of-state and international applicants to meet funding requirements because their cost of tuition is much higher. In 2021, 36 PVHS students were admitted to UC Berkeley. The lawsuit, however, might decrease this number in 2022. The lawsuit continues to cause frustration to the high school seniors who have worked for four years to be “worthy of admission to this university,” senior Bence Peti-Peterdi said. Because of its prestige, diverse student body and unique genetics and plant biology major, Peti-Peterdi considers UC Berkeley one of his top choices. “When I first heard about the lawsuit, I felt distraught,” Peti-Peterdi said. He along with other students believe that the CEQA is being taken advantage of at the cost of prospective applicants. “Although the [CEQA] is a good piece of legislation, it has been used to block

“5,100

applicants who would otherwise have been offered admssion would not recieve such an offer.”

construction including bike lanes, public transit and especially affordable housing,” Peti-Peterdi said. “This kind of legislation shouldn’t be used against the well-being of students.” Many accuse Save Berkeley Neighborhoods of ulterior motives because of Bokovy’s history with UC Berkeley. “When I moved into my house, there were 27,000 students,” Bokovy said. “Now it has 45,000 students. I didn’t choose to live in a town with 45,000 students.” This attitude has caused many students to call this group out on its hypocrisy through the acronym NIMBY’s (Not In My Backyard). They state that the CEQA, which historically has been abused and misused, is being manipulated to push a separate agenda, regardless of environmental concerns. Criley believes their environmental argument is valid “only to a certain extent.” SBN are using the traffic, noise and the housing displacement that comes with overpopulation as justifications for their lawsuit. “Berkeley has and always will be primarily a college town,” Criley said. “[Car traffic] can’t be fairly attributed to students because very few students have cars, and those that do seldom drive. I feel the same way about noise—if you want peace and quiet at night, don’t live on frat row!”

Are PV’s Cliffs a Safety Hazard?

By Victoria Nolan reporter

The Palos Verdes cliffs, a constant attraction to both tourists and locals due to the breath-taking views and scenic hiking trails, are not only alluring but evidently dangerous as well. A number of people have fallen down the rugged cliffs, and while some have survived, others met death down below the peninsula’s edge. In fact, Palos Verdes Estates Police Captain Tony Best reported that between 2010 and 2015, “thirty-one incidents— including suicides, rescues and injuries— have occurred along blufftops in the city.” As these incidents prevail, some cannot help but wonder if the existing safety precautions are enough. “The first time I walked along the cliffs was definitely a little chilling,” freshman Josephine Nolan said. “The height of the rocky ledge can be scary, especially with the strong winds and lack of fencing.” While the area feels hazardous to some, others think that the installation of fencing or more signs would interfere with the natural beauty of the bluffs. PVHS senior Conrad Sanacore, who frequently hikes down the cliffs to surf said, “Sometimes people can get careless and fall off while walking on the cliffs, but I think they should stay the same.” While Palos Verdes is not legally obligated to install fencing along natural cliff-side areas, Councilman James Vandever believes further discussion on improving the blufftop safety is certainly something the city should give a push to. “Some people have missed that warning [that they are getting close to the dangerous conditions] and paid dearly for it,” Vandever said.

MARCH 3, 2022

(Photo by Victoria Nolan)

(Photo by Aidan Sun)

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FEATURES

Vintage and Vibrant

Students with Timeless Cars Tell Their Stories By Ayla Torres reporter

Students flaunt their unique cars. (Clockwise starting from top left: Photo courtesy of Avery Lahr, photos by Ayla Torres, and photo courtesy of Coral Hugoboom)

Warming Up to Spring Fashion By Reddin Kehrli social media editor The recent warm weather and trips to the beach are reminding us that winter is coming to an end and spring fashion is on its way. From Y2K to gingham print, spring 2022 is showing range and making a statement. Reflecting back on spring fashion shows, flaunting white pieces and neon cut outs, gives fashion lovers insight to make predictions for upcoming trends. There are many students who enjoy expressing themselves through fashion. Surfer style has always been popular on campus, representing brands like including Former, RVCA, Vissla. Sophomore Pierce O’Leary says his style is mostly inspired by his friends and older surfers he looks up to. He describes his style as, “Former meets surf and skate meets alt streetwear,” and

corresponds his fashion to his lifestyle. Anticipating the warmer seasons, O’Leary is looking forward to “breaking out [his] flip-flops and sandals. [He also] wants to invest in some buttondown shirts as well to keep [his] style classy.” Bright colors, sun dresses and common summer styles are back in fashion after a long and cold winter. Matching sets and mini skirts ruled the spring look runways and have forecasted streetwear style. Senior Ava Yang has a love for fashion and is pursuing her passion at NYU by minoring in fashion this coming fall. Yang’s favorite trends currently include gloves and tights, which have been brought back in the past couple of months. In the coming season, she would like to see more headpieces and accessories, “like balaclavas and head scarves.”

The parking lot of PVHS is filled with plenty of unique cars with stories behind each wheel. Beyond what meets the eye, there are more to these cars than what we may see in the parking lot. Students’ passion and devotion toward the improvement of operation and cosmetics of their vehicles is not only impressive but worth the while to hear. Senior Coral Hugoboom got her red 1963 Dodge GT from Palm Springs about a year ago. “I never had a dream car growing up but once I got this car it turned into my dream car,” Hugoboom said. Her adoration continues to grow as she has plans to work on her car in the future. Seniors Daniel and Gabriel Olvera’s 1957 Chevrolet 3100 has been in their family for years before their dad gifted it to them as sophomores. “We replaced a lot of parts that

were either broken or worn down from the years prior,” G. Olvera said. “We were most excited to restore the interior because it completes the look.” Aside from their effort toward remodeling the interior, the unique exterior is what truly catches the eye. “When we got it back from our cousin it was in bad shape,” G. Olvera said. “So we all fixed it up together and left the rust in the body because we liked it.” Their truck truly is like no other as the vintage aesthetic is timelessly admirable. “I think the rust actually makes it stand out from other cars too,” G. Olvera said. “It’s easy to spot and the truck is one-of-one so you know it’s us when you see it.” Senior Aaron Brandt’s 1988 Ford Bronco has been a goal of his to obtain for as long as he can remember. Brandt’s journey has been quite difficult as he’s experienced some issues over time. “I have recently redone the

entire engine because it has had some issues over the past couple of years,” Brandt said. However, he dreams one day of having a 1960-70s version for their classic and timeless reputation. Nevertheless, Brandt remains grateful for the car he’s worked so hard to acquire. “I feel that my car stands out from others not only because of its size, but also it’s cool history,” Brandt said. “I think what makes this car special is that it still has the original paint and is completely untouched with nothing missing,” junior John Harris said. “The bright yellow paint stands out quite a bit.” Harris’ truck is more to him than distinctive paint and fortunate circumstances. “This car is important to me because classic cars are something I’ve grown up around my entire life and it’s something me and my dad can work on together to teach me how to fix up a classic car,” Harris said.

Meditation 101 By Sophie Stoddart reporter Meditation is a perfect option for those who are looking for a way to improve their emotional wellbeing, lower stress levels, and cultivate a deeper understanding and awareness of themselves. Leah Bernstein, a yoga and meditation instructor located in Lunada Bay, has shared her personal experience with meditation. “I started meditating about 18 years ago in my yoga practice without really realizing it. I just noticed that I felt better after Savasana which is the final meditation of a yoga practice. I have really deepened my meditation practice over the past eight years,” she said. Additionally, meditation has been proven to reduce negative and overly self-critical thoughts. Bernstein shares how meditation

has changed her in life, saying, “I have always had a busy mind and been a high energy person. I noticed that after focused breath and stillness I felt so much more calm and centered. I try to start each day with a morning meditation. Sometimes I don’t fit it in, but I notice that everything feels more manageable when I meditate. I would say that meditating has shifted my energy level and focus allowing me to be more present and peaceful.” There are many people who struggle with school-induced stress. Luckily, there is a place where students can go on campus to reduce this stress. Wellness counselor and PVHS teacher Tammi Sheridan has shared what she notices about students who visit the wellness center. “Meditation has allowed our students to slow down and be more present to what’s going on in their lives - in and out of

the classroom. This allows our students to make better and more conscious choices for themselves. Many students face pressure to look, feel and think a certain way… Meditation can be a wonderful way to clear your mind, focus on the present moment, and regain perspective of worries and challenges you may be facing. Meditation is accessible anywhere and requires no preparation or materials. Anyone can try meditation, and find what they enjoy. As Bernstein has said, “I definitely feel that meditation can be transformative and an incredible tool. A way of more deeply connecting with our inner calm and [a way of] centering ourselves. I also feel that the choice to meditate is a personal one. I definitely think that anyone who has a curiosity or interest in meditating should absolutely give it a try.”

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MARCH 3, 2022

Rising Star-lings By Sierra Namvari photo editor The number of students with exceptional talent at our school have proven time and time again to impress crowds. Starting in late December 2021, juniors Cate Fasoletti, Eva Mayrose, Pixie Kinsolving and Calissa Mayer, along with senior Eden Paddock, created the band “The Starlings.” “Cate came up with our name because it’s in the song ‘White Room’ by Cream,” Kinsolving said. Fasoletti and Kinsolving both play the electric guitar, switching off with rhythm and lead. In addition, Kinsolving shares main vocals with keyboard player Mayrose. Mayer plays the bass while Paddock plays the drums. “The band came from a mixture of inspirations,” Fasoletti said. “I wanted to play the music of all the bands I love and I felt inspired by being in an environment of other musicians at school.”

They mostly play covers and are in the early stages of creating their own unique sound while mainly rehearsing here on campus in the music rooms. The girl group performs mainly 60’s and 70’s music and takes inspiration from The Beatles, The Knee Hi’s, The Doors as well as 50s doowop and rock n’ roll. “I started playing the bass when Pixie asked me to be in the band, because I usually play the acoustic guitar, so it’s kind of a big change so far,” Mayer said. The band just had their first live performance at school during the Remember the Tritons Walk that was held on Feb. 18. Their second performance took place at the Palos Verdes High School Honors Recital last Friday Feb. 25. “We decided to perform at the recital after our first gig in order to become more comfortable playing for other people and to improve our skills,” Fasoletti explained. Keep an eye out for “The Starlings” performances as they continue their passion together.

All-Star Ensembles Assemble

By Amber Chen opinion editor

After years of hard work and countless hours of consistent practice, student musicians juniors Johannes Eberhart, Sarah Park and Anthony Yoon and senior Sam Malekzadeh have been rewarded with high honors: acceptances into regional, statewide From left to right: Sarah Park (11), Anthony Yoon (11), and nationwide Johannes Eberhart (11), Sam Malekzadeh (12) honor ensembles. (Photo by Amber Chen) These large-scale ensembles, with varying regional practice harder, increasing his chances at magnitudes, are operated by distinguished making the All Southern’s upper-level jazz music associations that collaborate with band and eventually, All State. renowned conductors. Although they are “After I made All Southern in my run by separate associations, the intense junior year and met other musicians, my audition, rehearsal and concert structures perspective on practice changed, and I all similarly reflect the virtuosity of the realized I stopped practicing specifically ensembles. for [auditions], and I started practicing “It’s not as much of a group as it is a just to make myself a better musician,” festival,” Eberhart explained. “It’s a twoMalekzadeh said. day process for All Southern-- one day “I had more motivation because of the is an eight-hour rehearsal, and the next other people there.” day is a 6-hour rehearsal followed by a After placing in a high position within concert.” All State’s wind ensemble last year, Eberhart was recently accepted into bassoonist Park became eligible to the Southern California School Band audition for the National Association for & Orchestra Association’s orchestra, Music Education’s concert band, often commonly known as All Southern. referred to as All Nationals. Although he plays a variety of string Park’s consistent practice, beginning instruments, including piano and viola, he in the sixth grade, has contributed to her auditioned on the violin. audition success. “I knew I wanted to commit to music “Both my brothers played double since freshman year, but I really started reed instruments… so I started playing focusing on violin [during] the tail end of bassoon. I tried the oboe first, but I didn’t my sophomore year,” Eberhart said. “The really like it,” Park said. opportunities to perform for people in my “I’d want to try to minor in music or even community definitely inspire me to become double major [in college].” better.” Being surrounded by such talented Under highly selective audition peers has positively influenced these four processes, Malekzadeh was chosen as musicians. the only baritone saxophone player to Yoon, who performed with CASMEC’s participate in All Southern’s upper-level All State symphony orchestra for the jazz band group. On top of that, he was first time in February of 2022, stated that selected as the only baritone saxophonist “since everyone had the same background across California to join California’s All and mentality of musicians, it was like State jazz band. going into an extended family. The kids As a former member of All Southern’s there definitely reminded me of how much lower-level jazz band, Malekzadeh had harder I needed to work. Playing in such met other saxophonists who shared his a high level ensemble was definitely passion for music and inspired him to humbling.”

MARCH 3, 2022

FEATURES Behind the Scenes of the Matilda Musical Pit

From left to right: Ryan Fuerte (10), Calvin Barnum (12), Will Sasaki (12), Austin Roach (10) (Photo by Amber Chen) By Eva Mayrose reporter Every year, the incredibly talented PVHS drama department puts together a fall and spring show. Passionate actors, hard-working stage crew, set designers and technicians all spend weeks preparing and practicing to ensure a successful show. However, it’s not until guests see the final product that they realize what a large impact the musicians of the pit have. Though they may not be on center stage, dedicated musicians from all grades help control the tone and mood of the scene with their lively accompaniment. Stepping up from the previous show “Peter and the Starcatcher,” the pit has grown to over 10 students working together with music director Shellie Parkinson to create the perfect nostalgic score for this spring’s “Matilda.” “There’s a lot of different genres in the score, for example there’s a pop ballad … and in other songs there’s hard rock elements,” freshman and electric bassist Jeffrey Falcone said. This allows for musicians to experiment with different

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styles of scores and music genres. Before committing to three hour practices throughout the week, pit members must audition and go through an interview process held by Parkinson and a senior pit student member. However, any nerves about the interview or being a newcomer quickly dissipate as members bond throughout the season. “My favorite part about playing in the pit is probably all the different people coming together,” freshman and clarinet player Olivia Kao said. “We have people from orchestra, marching band and jazz band so we get to combine a lot of different genres.” One of the most prominent things about the pit is that all instruments are welcome. Different from the school’s normal music classes which are divided into orchestra or jazz band, the pit is an environment where students from all musical backgrounds can come together and create a unique sound. To put it simply, “it’s a really cool experience to play for a production,” Falcone said. “I’ve never really done something like that before.”

PAGE 5

A Blast From The PVHS Student Store

THE CRANBERRIES “I was a really big fan of The Cranberries. They have really random, fun songs and they’re kind of cool, too, that they have a wide range and you can listen to a lot of different parts.”

Believe it or not, our teachers were once high schoolers just like us. Our PVHS teachers helped us put together a catalog of their favorite music, food and games during their teenage years.

- Ms. Driver

SUZY HOMEMAKER OVEN “I loved my Suzy Homemaker Oven. You could bake a little tiny individual cakes and the heat source was a lightbulb, believe it or not. It was a little oven with a lightbulb. And the other thing was a spirograph. I don’t think they make it anymore. It’s very mathematical actually. It’s these gears. I actually have a little one at home. It was these gears and then you drew it inside like a big gear and it made polar graphs.”

CHICAGO DOG HOT DOG “I worked at a hot dog restaurant in high school. Chicago dog. Sublime.” -Mr. Peterman

- Mrs. Norris

BLINK-182

“Blink-182, and my favorite album was Enema of The State. I really identified with their message in high school, like teenage angst.” - Mr. Hill

STUFFED ANIMALS

ART SUPPLIES

“I loved to draw, I was very artistic when I was a kid.” -Mrs. Remeta

“I played with stuffed animals because they were cute. I didn’t like Barbie.” - Ms. Calescibetta

m the Past 0

PONG “In high school, my dad bought Pong which was an electronic paddle game you would hook up to your TV. I played that so much that I actually burned an imprint on the screen. It’s an original video game, basically just a little white ball that you hit back and forth but back in the 70’s that was like real high tech.”

PANDA EXPRESS ORANGE 99 CHICKEN

“I played a lot of Donkey Kong and Pacman because they were very interactive and I found it fun how you can keep working and improving.”

AMERICAN IDIOT

“I was an emo/pop punk kid at heart and I loved Fall Out Boy, Green Day, Panic! At The Disco. I also loved Taylor Swift. Fearless was one of my top albums in high school. I was also in love with Pete Wentz and Brendon Urie.” -Mrs. Mindicino

PAC-MAN

- Mrs. Secrist

- Mr. Hill

FEARLESS

“My stepdad worked for Wonder Bread, so we would trade things for Hostess’s, Dingdongs, Twinkies, so we had a lot of that around the house.”

- Mrs. Kostrencich

- Mr. Harley

“I always looked forward to some orange chicken from Panda Express.”

WONDER BREAD

CARL’S JR. NUGGETS “When I was young I ate a lot of junk food and my favorite snacks were star shaped chicken nuggets from Carl’s Junior dipped in ranch.”

- Ms. Fleming

PACKAGED APPLE PIES “This is going to sound terrible but I used to like those pre-packaged apple pies. I don’t know if they have them anymore because they probably cause cancer but they’re like a blob of apple pie in a package. I used to love those and eat them every day.” -Mr. Harley

EST. VALUE

OPINION

Even if Kyiv Falls, Moscow and Putin Still Lose

By Aidan Sun editor-in-chief On Feb. 22, Cossack Gundi, a British national turned Ukrainian marine I’d been following for a few weeks, tweeted as tensions grew in Eastern Europe, “Going dark on social media … It’s been a pleasure, everyone,” along with an image of Jim Carrey’s character, Truman, from “The Truman Show.” The words “And in case I don’t see you, good afternoon, good evening and good night” frame Carrey’s smiling face from above and below. It was perhaps the eeriest tweet I’d ever read. A mere 30 hours later, as my phone’s radar app displayed Ukraine’s airspace suddenly clear of planes, and desperate tweets of bombings and invasion across the country filled my Twitter feed, I thought surely Gundi would die. The 19 soldiers, journalists, civilians, internet sleuths and politicians populating my custom “Ukraine” Twitter list would soon be gone too. Kyiv, Kharkiv, Dnipro, Odessa, Lviv — the cities I’d come to know through their accounts would fall within days. And yet while Putin’s invasion has come already with immense and irreversible tragedy, 10 days after Gundi’s farewell tweet, Russia’s military has been humiliated; its already-struggling economy continues to freefall; and Putin faces increasing opposition from within his own country and from his own friends. More significantly, America and its allies are stronger and more

united than they have been in more than half a century. Cossack Gundi still lives. My 19 Twitter “informants” live. Ukraine lives. Democracy lives. Before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there was ample cause for concern over the gradual degradation of democratic values worldwide. If Jan. 6 showed Americans anything, it’s that democracy is a fragile thing meant to be protected at any and all cost. Now, the democracies of the world have turned their literal and figurative guns towards Moscow, acknowledging that fragility, and uniting systematically in a way none thought possible. It’s not just America’s usual partners in Europe and the Pacific sending lethal aid to Ukraine or imposing crippling sanctions on Russia either. “Authcurious” countries Hungary and Turkey (whose leaders, Victor Orbán and Tayyip Erdoğan, have become increasingly close to Putin) have played ball in the last week with the more liberal democracies. Orbán announced on Feb. 26 that Hungary would “support all the sanctions” imposed by the European Union against Russia. Erdoğan, though not agreeing to sanctions, has limited Russia’s access to the strategicallysignificant Dardanelles and Bosphorus straits that allow access to the Black Sea. Though democracy in Hungary, Turkey, the U.S. and other nations is far from saved, the strength and resolve of Ukraine’s

Politicians, Follow Your Own Rules By Andrew Carpenter design editor Restrictions in response to COVID-19 started for Sea Kings on March 16, 2020 with school being called off. Many other mandates soon followed to slow the spread of the unknown virus, and as an effect, the economy suffered and many small businesses collapsed. Since the mandates first came out, there have been multiple instances of politicians disobeying them, thinking that they are above the rules. On Mar. 19, 2020, California governor Gavin Newsom ordered all “non-essential” business establishments to close, causing those business owners and the people who worked at those businesses to not be able to work or provide for them and their families. Businesses that stayed open were given a fine. Newsom then attended a dinner party at the restaurant “The French Laundry” unmasked and indoors on Nov. 6, 2020. Newsom attending the party showed blatant disregard for the safety protocols he himself had created, disappointing the people who elected him to positively

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represent the state. On Dec. 1 , 2020, L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl voted to prohibit outdoor dining at all of L.A. county’s 30,000 restaurants, then goes to dine outdoors just hours later at a Santa Monica Italian restaurant, Il Forno Trattoria. This is clear hypocrisy shown by Kuehl, a supervisor of our own county. On January 30, 2022, Newsom and L.A. county mayor Eric Garcetti, along with San Francisco’s mayor London Breed attended an L.A. Rams football game in a packed arena while not wearing masks or social distancing. Since it is unacceptable for the general public to overlook COVID-19 safety protocols, it should obviously be unacceptable for politicians, the elected officials of our country, to disregard these important rules. When politicians create rules that they themselves don’t follow, it seems to indicate that they either think they are better than the people they represent, or they think that the rules are unnecessary. I implore all politicians, who make rules affecting everyone’s lives, to abide by their own rules.

people and, by extension, democratic values, have reaffirmed democracies’ delicate dominance over the creeping ethnonationalism of those like Putin. Prior precedent be damned. At the slightest whiff of war in Europe, gone was our allies’ rhetoric about their need for greater independence. The once-bulletproof Nord Stream 2 pipeline was scrapped, Russia was cut off from SWIFT and even “neutral” nations like Switzerland and Sweden joined in on the super-bloc stripping of Kremlin assets. None of today’s coordinated action would be possible without the leadership of Washington D.C. After four tumultuous years of uncertainty on the international stage and several of our own dips into darkness, America has emerged agains as the flagbearer of globalized liberal democracy. Just days ago in yesterday’s world, large numbers of Americans would have agreed that when push came to shove, the U.S., pressured by popular opinion, would choose to preserve economy over ideology in event of a Russian invasion. There might be some sparse sanctions and aid, but nothing like we’re seeing today. But, according to a CNN poll on Feb. 28, 83% of Americans (practically unheard of numbers) agree on tougher sanctions against Moscow and the two parties (save for the usual bad actors) have become relatively unified in renewed opposition

(Graphic by Aidan Sun) to a familiar foe, conveying that, in at least some sense, America the good and just and honorable prevails. The status quo of looking to Uncle Sam’s leadership falls once again into place. Putin’s dreams for a disunified NATO and a disunified America have been shattered by his own hand. Without his invasion of democratic, liberal, America and Europe-loving Ukraine, what would have fused back together the breaking bonds between allied nations? The answer is nothing. Nothing would have, save for war. Extraterrestials (and China) beware. America and its allies have reunited to once again become Earth’s mightiest heroes.

We had our “Civil War” moments. But when the time came to face the greatest of evils, cooperation and common good prevailed. The world order Putin feared is here and out to get him. Crippling sanctions, billions in aid to Ukraine, massive increases in defense budgets and a heightened sense of unity, all a product of Putin, today stands more than ready to challenge his regime as well as any other that aspires to unjustly invade a sovereign and democratic nation. Ironically, we’ll have Putin to thank for later peace as the enemies of tomorrow won’t dare oppose (at least militarily) America and its many, many friends.

Digital Classroom Benefits In-Person School By Quinn Kearns reporter

classroom environment. Google Classroom contains many different tools that students can use to stay organized and on

Many schools over the past couple of years have drifted away from using physical agendas, assignments and some tests. Google Classroom is one platform that has aided teachers and students through online learning and even is useful for in-person learning. Our school district in particular has adopted both Microsoft Teams and Google Classroom, meaning that they must pay for both platforms. District officials have discussed shifting to using only one platform. After using Microsoft (Graphic by Aidan Sun) Teams in middle school and switching to Google Classroom top of their work. For example, for high school, I can say that its calendar and agenda features Google Classroom has made both help students plan their much more of a positive impact weeks paperless. on my overall organization of my Receiving notifications from school work. Google Classroom to remind Teams was originally made for students about assignments and efficient office communication, due dates is another touch that whereas Google Classroom makes it easier to stay on top of was made specifically for the homework.

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Google Classroom also gives students and teachers easy ways to communicate with one another via private comments. Additionally, teachers often use Google Classroom’s meeting feature for extra office hours to make it easily accessible for all students who need help. Some might argue that Google Classroom is lacking in multiple aspects, such as communication across other platforms. Google Classroom only allows access to Google features, which is inconvenient if you prefer other platforms for writing essays and preparing slideshow presentations. It is true that Google Classroom definitely has areas in which it needs to improve, but Google is constantly working on improving its overall functionality and system. Though is still a fairly new software, Google Classroom will definitely continue to grow to better accommodate the learning needs of students.

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OPINION

A Letter From the Therapy Dogs Would Editors Help Students De-Stress America’s racist past is no secret, at least to students of Palos Verdes High School. Today, teachers, administration and students alike have done their best to promote curriculums in which truthful reflections of history and society are given priority over narratives that are perhaps more comfortable. Our school isn’t unique in this regard. In our school’s history there have been a multitude of incidents in which racial slurs, predominantly the n-word, have been used by students, forcing PVHS to reckon with racism both inside and outside of the classroom. Though this reckoning may have changed some practices and behaviors at school, the n-word persists in a familiar form — its oral usage in the classroom setting when reading literature. At times, the word has been verbally read in English and social studies classrooms when it comes up in articles and district-approved books to maintain “authenticity” or preserve the author’s “intent,” making many students, especially Black students, extremely uncomfortable in those circumstances. “Authenticity” seems to be the main justification of the word’s verbal usage. That word, in its “authentic” (aka historical) “intent,” was used to denote Black people as subhuman in the most vile, diminishing way imaginable. “Authentic” also describes the word’s violent and painful

history, from its usage by slave masters in the 1600s to white supremacists in the Jim Crow era of the 1900s. Though today we are living in a greatly reformed society moved beyond the pervasive usage of the n-word, past progress is no excuse to ignore the context of verbal violence the word has historically (and currently) been used. That being said, the spoken usage of this derogatory weapon in all forms at our school should end. We recognize that generational differences present a current barrier towards changing acceptable usages of the n-word. However, it’s imperative that the voices of alreadyunderrepresented Black students at PVHS, led by the Black Student Union (BSU), be acknowledged when discussing future practices. We implore members of staff and students alike to heed the charged nature of the n-word, educate themselves and others on it, and promote a safe and comfortable environment for all by ending its verbal usage entirely. In some classes, teachers have prefaced books containing this slur with the aforementioned context, educating students on its pervasive usage in racist contexts (both modern and past), reclamation by Black people in the last half-century and the reasons why it is not acceptable to say even today. We believe that this practice should be adopted at PVHS.

During Finals Week

(Photo courtesy of Naomi Kao) By Meeka Rahimi reporter I believe that therapy dogs on campus would be a good idea for this school. Especially during finals week, when students have a lot of stress, it can be helpful to have a furry, comforting friend to confide in. With all the stress of school work and testing, having a couple minutes to relax and create a bond with a dog will really uplift the mood of many. Many studies have shown

that interactions with service or therapy dogs creates a stress relieving environment. Treatment canines do not just positively affect enthusiastic prosperities, but also positively impact mental turn of events. Therefore, associating with these dogs can further relieve stress and help with learning and focusing during study sessions and tests themselves. Additionally, therapy animals contribute to emotional wellbeing, which is especially important during finals week. Some might argue that having

service dogs on campus can be harmful to students who are allergic to them. This creates a problem when the dogs go in and out of classrooms. But, trainers bathe and groom therapy dogs before visiting school, so they are clean and will shed less on campus. We can put the emotional support dogs in a separate room such as the wellness center or an empty classroom so students can visit the dogs instead of dogs visiting the students. In this case, being around service dogs can be a choice for students.

A Test More Suitable for Gen Z: A Modernized, Digital SAT By Natalie Wang reporter On Jan. 25, the College Board announced that starting in 2024, the Scholastic Aptitude Test, or SAT, would become digital, leaving many students questioning what this means for them and their college application process. The pencil and paper SAT has been offered since 1926 and since then has been an often stressful but vital part of college applications for students. Although the SAT is somewhat controversial in its equity, especially regarding scores from students of low-income households, the updated, digital version of the SAT will benefit students and make standardized tests a less stressful experience. Not only is the digital format more student-friendly, but the test content itself is supposed to help students achieve better scores with more relevant material. Unlike previous

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generations, Gen Z was raised with new technology, so if anyone is comfortable with using technology, it’s the current high school students. The digital test allows students to take the test on their own devices or a school device, as long as they are present at a testing site. Many students who tested out the digital version of the SAT said that the familiarity of being able to use their own laptops for the test made the experience overall less stressful. The College Board also says scores will be released earlier than before, letting students know how well they did with a much shorter waiting time. The digital SAT is not only updated in its formatting, but in its content as well. The exam itself has been shortened from three hours to two and more time has been allotted per question. One of the trickiest aspects of the SAT was time management. But, with the new changes it’s one less thing students need to worry about. Other changes include shortened reading

passages and calculators being allowed for the entire math portion of the test. Many critics were skeptical of the digital SAT when the College Board first started making plans for it back in 2019. However, the new version of the test addresses all the arguments previously made against it. There were concerns over how the test could be made secure without anti-cheating software violating student privacy and whether or not students would be able to cheat more easily on the exam. The newly developed test program prevents students from opening other applications while the test is in session and the College Board promises to adhere to the generally accepted standards to protect students’ information. Furthermore, the test will be proctored at an in-person testing site, just like before, so test security shouldn’t be an issue. The digital SAT is the future of standardized testing, and students will benefit from the reforms made to the test.

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(Graphic by Amber Chen) PAGE 9

SPORTS PVHS Junior Leaps Into Greatness By Alycen Kim editor-in-chief In October of last year, junior Jackie Lane was handed the opportunity of a lifetime: to compete in one of ballet’s most distinguished international competitions. Lane was one of 73 ballerinas chosen from a pool of 400 highly-qualified applicants for the Prix de Lausanne competition held in Lausanne, Switzerland. Lane recalls when she first entered into the ballet world. “I first started ballet when I was five years old, but I really started taking it seriously when I was eight,” Lane said. “I dance at the Peninsula School of Performing Arts (PSPA) and I’ve performed in their various productions like The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty.” Lane remembers the months of intense preparation after receiving her invitation to the competition. “For this competition, I had to

train a lot more than I usually do,” Lane said. “Not only did I have to prepare pieces, I had to make sure that I was a well rounded, strong dancer. I would spend five or six hours after school in the studio working on my technique and practicing my routines. I also had to do other cross training and physical therapy. “The whole point of the competition was to look at the dancer as a whole. The judges observe a week of classes and they note how you take critiques and how you get along and work with the other dancers. They judge four parts: classical [class], contemporary class, classical pieces and contemporary pieces performed on stage.” Lane spent two weeks this past month in Switzerland for the prestigious competition. “I was super nervous before the competition,” Lane said. “But Switzerland is such a beautiful country. The view outside my hotel room overlooked this scenic

lake. The competition itself was super stressful, but I made a lot of friends and it was an amazing experience overall.” Lane also had many supporters by her side throughout her ballet career. “I definitely look up to my dance teacher Vera,” Lane said. “She is nothing but positive all the time and she makes me feel super supported and loved. She helped me prepare both mentally and physically for the competition, and she even came with me to Switzerland.” Lane credits the preparation and actual experience of the Prix de Lausanne for making her a better dancer and individual. “I think it gave me a different outlook on the ballet world,” Lane said. “Having the exposure to other talented dancers has definitely motivated me as a dancer. I think it’s also made me stronger as a person because of all the hard work and time I put in.”

PV Soccer Players Dribble Their Way to the Next Level

(Photos Courtesy of Michala Fairchild, Conor Steinbach, Lindsey Metcalfe) By Isabella Firmani reporter This year, the PVHS soccer program has more than just its great season from both the boys’ and girls’ teams to be proud of. In recent months, three players, two varsity girls and one varsity boy, have committed to play soccer at the collegiate level. Michala Fairchild, senior and midfield player of the girl’s varsity team, announced she will be furthering her academic and athletic career at Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri in the fall. She plans to major in sports administration and found it to be a great place to do so. “[Maryville] has a really good sports business program,” Fairchild says, “and on top of that I was able to meet with the players and coaches when I visited, and I clicked really well with all of them.” Another senior from the girl’s varsity team, Lindsey Metcalfe, will be continuing her education and soccer career all the way cross country in the New England area. Metcalfe was one of the team captains and verbally committed to the University of Hartford in Connecticut in early 2022 where she will be playing in the fall.

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For Metcalfe, this school was a great fit because she knew she wanted to be on the east coast where both her brother and sister go to college. Due to the girls’ endless hard work during this year’s soccer season and each before, Metcalfe and Fairchild’s teammates and family members are both proud of their commitments and thrilled to see what’s in store for them in the future. “Since I’ve known [Lindsey], she has always been a natural leader on the field,” says teammate Abby Post, “She always made the team environment as positive and fun as possible, and I am so happy I was able to play alongside her.” Post also grew to be close with Fairchild on and off the field, saying “Michala always put all her effort into everything she did [in soccer], and she worked hard to encourage everyone constantly.” Post adds that she is incredibly excited to see where both of their collegiate careers take them. This love and excitement goes both ways, however, and the girls feel that “none of it would be possible without [their] coaches and teammates constantly supporting [them].” “Coaches were always there when I needed help contacting

[schools],” Fairchild comments, “and I wouldn’t look good on the soccer field if it wasn’t for my amazing teammates around me.” Moving to the boys’ varsity commitment, senior Conor Steinbach recently announced his decision regarding his academic and athletic future. Steinbach was a captain of the boy’s varsity soccer team this year and has been playing since freshman year. “Playing all four years [with PV soccer] has been great to get to grow and build a family with all of [my teammates].” Steinbach says, “Being a captain was definitely a new challenge but I really enjoyed being able to help the younger players.” Now, Steinbach plans to study kinesiology and sports medicine at Azusa Pacific University, a decision that came about after the school saw him playing at an ID camp and reached out via emails and phone calls. “APU was a great fit overall for me because of the soccer opportunities, scholarships, and it being close to home,” he adds. For the PVHS soccer program, these commitments are a clear reflection of what great team chemistry, hard work and great coaching can do for players looking to go to the next level.

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(Photo courtesy of Jackie Lane)

The Retirement of Tom Brady By Aaron Paik reporter

Zupon said. “In my opinion he is the Greatest of All Time. I was completely shocked when With the retirement of Tom he retired. I still thought he had Brady, sports fans were both a few seasons left. And to be devastated and happy. honest, I don’t see him coming With rumors spreading after his loss against the Los Angeles back.” “My favorite memory is when Rams, he made it official at the Tom Brady lost twice to Eli beginning of February. Manning,” sophomore Michael With one of the most prolific Clemons said. “He definitely isn’t careers in sports history, Tom the GOAT. I was full of joy when Brady finished his career with he retired. And I hope he doesn’t 15 Pro Bowl selections, seven Super Bowl rings, five Super Bowl come back” ,“By far my favorite memory of Awards, three Regular-Season Tom Brady was last season when MVP Awards and two Offensive the Saints beat the Buccaneers Player of the Year awards. in the regular season 38-3,” Statistically, he finished with 7,263 completions, 84,520 yards sophomore Christian Marr said. “I believe that Brady is the and 624 touchdowns. most accoladed football player Tom Brady’s retirement left in history, but not the most many fans with many different talented. When I heard the news reactions. “My most fond memory of Tom of the retirement, I was beyond shocked, as well as happy. And Brady was his 28-3 comeback I do believe that Brady will be against the Falcons in Super back.” Bowl 51,” sophomore Zander

Washington Football Team vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers from FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland, November 14th, 2021 (All-Pro Reels Photography)`

MARCH 3, 2022

SPORTS

PVHS Sophomore Picks up the Pace on the Track

By Kelly Donahue social media editor

By Chloe Choi reporter

Girls' Beach Volleyball

What are some expectations you have for this season? "It’s kind of hard to set a specific expectation for this season because it’s our very first year having beach as [a CIF sport]. I think one thing I really can expect is for us to have fun and set the mood for what [beach volleyball] will be like for the rest of PV High history." - Jenna Leone (12)

Boys' Volleyball

What is your favorite part about preseason? "My favorite part about preseason is trying out all the different potential lineups to maximize our talent represented on the court." - Matthew Warter (11)

Girls' Lacrosse

What is your favorite part about the team? "My favorite part about our team is each player’s willingness to put everything out on the field for one another." - Jillian Martz (12)

Boys' Lacrosse What are some expectations you have for this season? "I expect this season to be [as] competitive and fun as it always is. We’re such a young team [so] it’s going to be exciting to see all the underclassmen gain experience and progress this season. I think we’re going to have a really good shot at beating some top tier teams this season." - Jack Donell (12)

Baseball

How has the team been preparing during preseason? "Practice is very intense and we’re under pressure, but it is to simulate a game situation, and I believe it helps slow the game down for a lot of people. The coaches also put a lot of trust in us to get work done outside of practice. Whether it’s hitting, lifting, or even the mental side of the game, they expect that from us.” - Jack O’Connor (12)

Softball

What was your favorite part of preseason? "My favorite part of preseason was the team bonding activities we did. I think it helped us work together [better] and become a better team." - Hannah Allen (12)

Boys' Tennis

Sophomore Alex Naehu, who has been running cross country since sixth grade has learned valuable lessons while collecting various achievements. Naehu began running at PVIS because his older sister, Lauren Naehu, was running cross country and track at PVHS. His father and grandfather also ran during high school. Although his family had Freshman Cole Foster and sophomore Alex Naehu at a strong influence, his track practice. (Photo by Chloe Choi) biggest inspiration came from his PVIS coach, Scott Reid. “The person I look up to most is [Reid], Naehu received praise from freshman Naehu said. “He coaches at PVlS and and teammate Cole Foster. he’s the main reason why I started the “Alex is a great influence on and off the sport. He was just so encouraging… field and is great to be around,” Foster [and] he was running out there everyday said. working with us.” “He’s very inspirational and inspires Naehu was first on the team for all me to work hard. He’s always making three years at PVIS and one of his everyone laugh and getting us through biggest accomplishments was in eighth long runs. He’s an overall very hard worker grade when he was invited to the Alan which helps us work towards a common Webb Invitational, a national competition goal as a team.” for the best youth runners in each state. “Alex has a ton of talent, a gift that other “We grew closer as a team and as kids don’t have,” cross country coach friends over those three years at PVIS,” Brian Shapiro said. Naehu said. “Just by being out there running, doing “When it came to high school things others can’t, other people want everything was new but we had a great to achieve that too. He’s a great model group of seniors who welcomed me, a to show others how to work hard and lost freshman. As all freshmen are, I was improve.” lost and stupid.”

How is preseason going? "Preseason is going to be very helpful because the teams we will be going up against are just as good if not better than our Bay League opponents so it will be a good way for us to both test our strength and prepare us for the regular season." - Scott Shimoyama (12)

Boys' Golf

What are some expectations you have for this season? "We have a lot of new players this year with a lot of talent. I think we’re going to have a good team with all of the new players and the returning ones from last year. I think we have a very good chance of beating Pen." - Raymond Moll (11)

Track and Field What has been your favorite part of preseason? "My favorite part of preseason was watching my teammates consistently get in better shape after each workout, and meeting all my new teammates, both freshmen and transfers from different sports." Adam Demoner (12)

Swim

What has been your favorite part of preseason? "My favorite part of preseason was swimming with incoming freshmen. I swam with them during club practices, and seeing them now come to the high school team is amazing. I’m really excited for them to have their first season." - Calvin Barnum (12)

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NEWS

10th Annual Remember the Tritons Walk

By Lucia Ruiz features editor On Feb. 18, members of the community came together during the 10th annual Remember the Tritons Walk during sixth period. The Remember the Tritons Walk is held in honor of former student Brian Booth who passed away from cancer and it is organized by Be The Change. “All of the money we raise goes to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society,” senior and Be The Change co-president Maggie Puhl said. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society was founded in 1949 and is the “largest voluntary health organization dedicated to fighting blood cancer in the world,” according to LLS.org. The 72-year-old organization’s mission is “to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s lymphoma and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.” “We dedicate our walk to those Sea Kings who have gone through the process of fighting against cancer,” Puhl said. “I really enjoyed being able to honor my uncle who fought cancer by donating to the walk,” junior Grace Gulcher said. This year, the walk is held in honor of Associate Principal Keely Hardage and basketball

coach Brian Edelman. “The Remember the Tritons Walk is an annual event put on by BTC in order to support those fighting and who lost the battle to cancer that were or are a part of the Sea King family,” junior and BTC member Hayleigh Liu said. Participants began with signing in during lunch then listened to junior Calissa Mayer’s singing of the “Star Spangled Banner” and speeches by seniors and BTC co-presidents Puhl and David Maemoto. Then, the colored powder was thrown and the walk commenced. “During the event, you walk on a set route and BTC members throw colored powder at you,” Liu said. “Since this year was our 10 year anniversary of the Remember the Tritons Walk we decided to do a theme of different decades for every color station.” After walking the route and going through the different color stations, participants made their way back onto campus for the festival. After playing themed games like Pin the Crown on the Sea King, students parted ways. “My favorite part was walking with my friends and listening to the decades music,” Gulcher said. Overall, the walk had a turnout of 260 participants and raised over $30,000.

Pint-Sized Stories

(Pictures by Aidan Sun)